Do you have to clear US customs if you have a stopover in Puerto Rico?

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If you aren't traveling to the US or from the US, but just have a stopover in Puerto Rico, do you have to go through US customs?



Best Answer

Yes. Puerto Rico is part of the US, including for immigration purposes, and the same rules apply there as in airports in US states. The US does not have sterile transit for international-to-international connections; all passengers must go through US immigration, customs, and TSA security screening.

See our closely related questions Do I need an ESTA for changing airplanes in Puerto Rico? and Do I need a transit visa for changing airplane in San Juan airport?




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Do you clear US Customs in Puerto Rico?

U.S. citizens do not need to clear Puerto Rican Customs upon arrival by plane or ship from the U.S. mainland. International travelers should consult the official website of U.S. Customs and Border Protection for information on what can be brought into Puerto Rico.

Do you have to go through customs when you fly to Puerto Rico?

Even though Puerto Rico is located in the Caribbean, it is a US territory which means US citizens are free to travel to and from the island with ease. If you're a US citizen, you won't have to go through customs or present your passport when you get to Puerto Rico.

Do you have to clear US Customs on a connecting flight?

Many wonder, \u201cdo I have to go through customs for a connecting flight?\u201d This is a common question amongst international travelers, and the answer is usually \u201cno.\u201d As long as you're not leaving the airport, your bags are checked through to your final destination and you have a boarding pass for your next flight, you won ...

Is there immigration checkpoints in Puerto Rico?

Flying into Puerto Rico from any other US airport is the same as flying state-to-state. No customs. No immigration. Since PR is a US territory you've never left US soil (so to speak).



Puerto Rico Aiport Entry Requirements




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